Questions & Answers - Special Education - EI Clearinghouse (25-444-84-2900-01)

Questions & Answers

  1. Question:  If justified, can the application include a budget greater than the "estimated total funding available" listed on the NOFO?
    • Answer: Yes, the submitted budget should reflect the estimated total funding amount that the Applicant feels is a fair and accurate cost to perform the elements of the NOFO. However, the Applicant should also understand budget revisions may be necessary if awarded.
  2. Question:  Why does the "estimated total funding available" not include cost of living increases for each subsequent year?
    • Answer:  The amounts listed in the NOFO are an "estimate" only and do not include cost of living increases for subsequent years. The Department/Bureau is subject to an annual budget legislative process, that can impact the program budget. Therefore, the Department/Bureau cannot definitively determine future funding amounts. The Applicant must include a budget that reflects appropriate costs associated with performing the elements of the scope of work as indicated within the NOFO. The budget must include narrative to explain the costs listed.
  3. Question:  Where in the NOFO are Program Narrative content and format requirements defined?
    • Answer:  Within Section D.2. of the NOFO. Section D.2 provides specific content and page requirements/limitations. The Applicant should ensure the response addresses all elements outlined within the NOFO and any page requirements/limitations are followed.
  4. Question:  Are appendices allowed?
    • Answer:  Yes, appendices are allowed and are described in the NOFO under Section D.2. Appendices do not count towards total pages.
  5. Question: Are reviewers required to read the appendices and include them in their scoring?
    • Answer:  Reviewers will be required to review the full NOFO response including the appendices from each Applicant. Reviewers will use scoring tools specific to the NOFO to ensure the requirements of the NOFO will be implemented and the response contains sufficient information to support the score given.
  6. Question:  Are letters of support allowed?
    • Answer:  While not required, letters of support can be submitted but will not be used when determining scoring.
  7. Question: For formatting, is the Program Narrative supposed to be single-spaced with 1-inch margins and 12-point font?
    • Answer: There is no specific formatting required for the FY25 EI Clearinghouse NOFO.
  8. Question: Is there a BEP requirement for this NOFO?
    • Answer: No, there is currently no Business Enterprise Program (BEP) requirement in this NOFO.